Guide for the Marriage Seeker

The following are important steps not only for those interested in getting married but also for any others involved in the process of facilitating a marriage. 

1. Both spouses should seek to get married purely for Allah's pleasure and in order to fulfill the purpose of marriage in Islam.

2. Both must put full trust in Allah that if they do everything properly and in accordance to the Shari'a that Allah will bless them with a good spouse and that any other approaches are falsehood and will not lead to Allah's blessing and success in marriage.

3. They should make du'a to Allah for a pious spouse who will aid them in their Islam and worship.

4. They should be very patient.  The process of marriage may take a long time especially in areas where Muslims are a small minority.

5. When a person is found, they should seek advice from various parties familiar with the person.

6. They should see the prospective spouse and perhaps speak with them (not alone).
One should ask relevant questions and make clear the Islamic foundation of the marriage.

7. Both should pray istakhaara to seek Allah's counsel.

8. Before the marriage contract, all dealings should be with the wali, and no attempt should be made to strike up a relationship with the future spouse before the marriage.
They should avoid all of the innovations surrounding marriage which are so widespread among the Muslims.